Making your own vegan gummy bears is easier than you might think! This recipe uses simple, plant-based ingredients to create a chewy, flavorful treat that’s perfect for kids and adults alike. Skip the store-bought candies packed with artificial ingredients and indulge in a healthier, homemade option.
Why You’ll Love These Vegan Gummy Bears
These vegan gummy bears are:
- Naturally sweetened: We’ll be using maple syrup for a delicious sweetness without refined sugar.
- Packed with flavor: Choose your favorite fruit juice to customize the flavor profile, from classic berry blends to tropical mixes.
- Fun to make: This recipe is a great activity for the whole family. Kids will love helping to choose the flavors and shapes!
- Free of common allergens: This recipe is naturally vegan, gluten-free, and free of the top 8 allergens.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1/2 cup (120ml) fruit juice of your choice, no pulp
- 1/4 cup (60ml) maple syrup
- 4 tablespoons (20 grams) agar agar powder
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for tartness)
Vegan gummy bear ingredients neatly arranged on a table
Equipment for Making Vegan Gummy Bears
- Small saucepan
- Whisk
- Gummy bear molds (silicone molds work best)
- Dropper or small spoon
How to Make Vegan Gummy Bears
Making your own vegan gummy bears is simple! Just follow these easy steps:
- Prepare your molds: Lightly grease your gummy bear molds with a bit of coconut oil or cooking spray. This will help the gummies release easily later.
- Combine ingredients: In a small saucepan, whisk together the fruit juice, maple syrup, and agar agar powder until there are no clumps.
- Heat the mixture: Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil, whisking constantly.
- Simmer and thicken: Once the mixture comes to a boil, reduce the heat to low and simmer for 3-5 minutes, whisking continuously. The mixture should thicken slightly.
Chef’s Tip: To test if your mixture is ready, put a small drop onto a chilled plate. It should solidify quickly and not be sticky to the touch.
- Pour into molds: Carefully pour the hot mixture into your prepared gummy bear molds. You can use a dropper or a small spoon to fill the molds precisely.
Pouring the gummy mixture into molds using a dropper - Cool and set: Allow the gummies to cool completely at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Then, transfer the molds to the refrigerator and chill for at least 2 hours, or until the gummies are firm.
- Unmold and enjoy: Once the gummies are set, gently pop them out of the molds.
Pouring the gummy mixture into molds using a dropperYour delicious homemade vegan gummy bears are ready to eat!
Tips for Perfect Vegan Gummy Bears
- Adjust the sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet gummy bear, you can reduce the maple syrup by 1-2 tablespoons.
- Get creative with flavors: Experiment with different fruit juices and even add a bit of zest for extra flavor. Some tasty options include:
- Berry Blast: Use a mix of strawberry, raspberry, and blueberry juice.
- Tropical Delight: Combine mango, pineapple, and a touch of lime juice.
- Ginger Zing: Use apple juice with a teaspoon of freshly grated ginger.
- Add some fun: Use cookie cutters to make different shapes besides gummy bears. Hearts, stars, and even dinosaurs are all possible!
A colorful assortment of homemade vegan gummy bears in different flavors and shapes
Storing Your Homemade Gummy Bears
Store your vegan gummy bears in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
FAQ: Vegan Gummy Bear Recipe
1. Can I use a different sweetener besides maple syrup?
Yes, you can substitute the maple syrup with agave nectar or another liquid sweetener of your choice. Keep in mind that this might slightly alter the taste and texture of the gummies.
2. Can I use fruit juice with pulp?
It’s best to use juice without pulp to ensure a smooth texture for your gummies. If your juice has pulp, strain it through a fine-mesh sieve before using it.
Chef’s Tip from Mia Kirk, Vegan Pastry Chef: “Using high-quality fruit juice makes a huge difference in the flavor of your homemade gummy bears. Opt for organic juices whenever possible.”
3. What is agar agar powder, and where can I find it?
Agar agar is a plant-based gelling agent derived from seaweed. It’s a great vegan alternative to gelatin. You can find agar agar powder in the baking aisle of most grocery stores, health food stores, or online.
4. My gummy bears are too soft. What happened?
If your gummy bears didn’t set properly, it’s likely that the mixture wasn’t heated long enough, or you didn’t use enough agar agar. Make sure you simmer the mixture for the full 3-5 minutes, whisking constantly. You can also try adding an additional tablespoon of agar agar powder next time.
5. Can I freeze vegan gummy bears?
While you can freeze vegan gummy bears, it’s not ideal. Freezing can affect their texture, making them slightly chewier. It’s best to store them in the refrigerator for optimal freshness.
These homemade vegan gummy bears are a fun and healthy treat that everyone will love. Get creative, experiment with flavors, and enjoy the process of making your own delicious gummy candies!
